Who.

My name is Tessa Roseboom, I am scientist, teacher and advocate. As a biologist, I am fascinated by the wonder of life. In the past 25 years, I have investigated how the early environment in which humans grow and develop affects later development and health throughout life.

This research has demonstrated the fundamental importance of a good start in life. In order to translate this knowledge from research into policy and practice, I work on the national and international level advocating for investments in a good start in life. I strongly believe such investments will accelerate progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. 

By teaching students, professionals and (future) parents I share knowledge and increase awareness about the fundamental importance of a good start in life. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to giving each child the best possible start in life to allow it to develop to its full potential in order to create a healthier more equal future for all.

"The early environment in which human beings grow shapes growth and development and lays the foundations for later health and wellbeing."

What.

I aim to generate knowledge and awareness about the fundamental importance of a good start in life and how to give each child the best possible start in life in order to develop to its full potential. I aim to inspire people to take action and contribute to a good start in life. I do this through research, advocacy and teaching.

Research

My research focusses on the following questions:

What are the consequences of exposures in early life?

Which interventions and policies are effective in optimizing individuals’ chances of developing to their full potential.

How to optimally communicate this knowledge to stakeholders (future parents, professionals and policymakers).

ADVOCACY

I want to increase awareness for:

The importance of a good start in life for human health and wellbeing.

Why gender equality is essential for achieving a good start in life.

How investments in early life will help us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Therefore, I initiated the Future Generations series at the Institute of Advanced Studies: join the conversation at Future Generations – Institute for Advanced Study IAS – University of Amsterdam (uva.nl)

TEACHING

Sharing knowledge, is multiplying it.

Therefore, teaching is an essential part of my mission to increase awareness about the importance of a good start in life to the following groups:current and future children, students, parents and professionals

• Children

• Students

• Current and future parents

• Professionals

"Thriving children today will build more sustainable societies tomorrow."

Contact.